.jpg){kind=link}
Ami, the rhinoceros at the Bioparc of Valencia, has died at the age of seven after a medical decision to avoid her suffering. The female, who arrived at the park in 2023 from the Kolmården Zoo in Sweden, immediately integrated into the rhinoceros group and was recognized for her friendly and sociable character with the staff and her companions. Her presence was key to the cohesion of the group, even contributing to the birth of the first southern white rhinoceros born in the Valencian park, an important milestone in the conservation program of the species.
After an initial period of successful adaptation, the biology team detected changes in its behavior, such as episodes of apathy and alterations in its usual routines. Although multiple veterinary interventions and treatments were initiated, Ami’s health progressively worsened. Clinical analyses revealed a serious and fatal disease related to the bone marrow, which severely affected its ability to produce red blood cells and platelets, reaching zero in the latter case.
In search of solutions, the Bioparc team had the support of horse specialists from the CEU Cardenal Herrera University. This collaboration was based on the physiological similarity between rhinoceroses and equines, which allowed the application of knowledge and techniques of diagnosis and treatment of equine origin. Despite these efforts, the evolution of the disease was rapid in the last two months, without possibility of reversal.
In the face of the severity of the deterioration and after an exhaustive evaluation, it was agreed with the European Programme for the Conservation of Endangered Species (EEP) to practice euthanasia. This decision, taken with the criterion of the animal care team, sought to avoid Ami’s additional suffering, whose condition did not respond to any available treatment. His death represents a significant loss not only for the park, but also for the conservation efforts of a species at risk of extinction.
The autopsy carried out in collaboration with the CEU Cardenal Herrera University aims to contribute scientific knowledge about a rare and little studied pathology. The case of Ami is considered particularly striking from a medical point of view, since his disease deeply affected hematological function, which can help better understand bone marrow diseases in large and little studied species.
I was part of the European Program for the Conservation of the Southern White Rhinoceros, a key initiative to stop the extinction of this species. His arrival at the Bioparc València was part of an international effort for protection and reproduction. His story, marked by positive adaptation and a significant impact on the group, leaves a legacy of hope and commitment in the fight for biodiversity.